An ascent of the Guadiana is not to be missed although it advisable to do it in spring or autumn as it would be unbearably hot in summer. After passing between the border towns of Vila Real and Ayamonte that straddle the river mouth you head upstream towards the new suspension bridge that carries the motorway. Once away from the coast the hills begin to rise and this river meanders through some really pretty countryside. The channel is not marked but there is plenty of depth in the centre to navigate safely. There are many quiet places to anchor and many small hamlets or villages have placed small pontoons which you can utilise to visit the local shops or farms to purchase supplies. The towns of Alcoutim and San Lucar de Guadiana face each other across the river some 20 miles inland both sporting a castle on the hill, evidence of a time when Europe was not so united. There are moorings off both towns and a small boat provides transport for pedestrians to cross from one side to the other. If careful one can continue upriver to Pomerao,“ the town that time forgot” Here you must order your food in the restaurant 24 hours in advance and the only shop is a van that comes “sometimes”. The one and only bar is hospitable and this is one place where you you really experience peace and tranquillity. The dawn chorus will make you think you are sleeping on a farm not a yacht. Care must be taken to avoid the large rock beneath the surface in the middle of the river when arriving or leaving Pomerao.
